Article I.

Persian Cat Breed

Size

Medium to large, with males weighing 9 to 14 pounds and females weighing 7 to 11 pounds

Coat

Long, thick, glossy

Color

White, blue, black, red, cream, chocolate, lilac

The docile Persian is a quiet feline who enjoys a calm and relaxing environment. Although she
enjoys sitting in her humans’ laps and being pet, she’s just as happy to sit and observe
everyone’s comings and goings from afar. Persians are independent and selective in who they
show affection to.

They enjoy playful activities but are also content to drape themselves over an armchair rather
than attempting to climb atop a bookcase. Persian kitties do well with mild-mannered children
and laid-back dogs.
Did you know?
Lifespan

15 to 20 years
Colors

The original Persian Cat had shiny, gray fur. Due to selective breeding, however, they now boast
an array of different colors. In fact, there are 7 different coat color divisions total for competition
purposes.

These range from silver and gold to white, smoky and solid-colored. Their eye color corresponds
to their coat color. For example, white Persians tend to have deep blue or copper eyes, whereas
silver or golden Persians have green eyes and solid-colored cats have copper eyes.
Characteristics

The Persian kitty has some distinct features, including a round head with a short face and snub
nose. She also has chubby cheeks, big, round eyes and small, rounded ears. Persians have
short, strong legs to support their sturdy bodies.
History
Persian Cats originated in Mesopotamia, which later became Persia and is now modern-day Iran.
Their soft features and docile personality attracted the attention of Pietro Della Valle, an Italian
nobleman who is credited with bringing these felines to Europe in the 17th century. The Persian
kitty was a favorite of Queen Victoria and the breed was imported to the U.S. in the late
19th century.
Facts
• Modern Persian Cats are available in over 80 different color combinations.
• The Persian participated in the first modern cat show, which took place in London in 1871.
• There was a push in the U.S. to make the Silver Persian its own breed called “Sterling”. This was
rejected, however, and silver and goldens are considered within the Persian category at cat
shows.
Caring for Persian Cats
Shedding
 Although they can shed a lot, proper grooming will prevent your Persian kitty from leaving hair all
over your home. Comb her hair daily to prevent tangles and matting and to remove loose hair.
Bathing once per month (after a thorough combing) will keep her coat and skin healthy and dirt
free.
Health

The Persian’s facial structure can predispose her to a number of potential health complications,
including:
• Respiratory difficulties
• Misaligned teeth
• Eye conditions like excessive watering and entropion
• Heat sensitivity

Persians are also more susceptible to ringworm (because of their long coats), skin conditions
that cause itching, redness and hair loss and polycystic kidney disease. Responsible breeders
dedicate themselves to breeding healthy Persian Cats who are no more prone to illness and
disease than other breeds, however.
Choosing the Best Food for Persian Cats
The flat face and short jaw of your Persian kitty may make it more difficult for her to eat dry kibble
and drink enough water. Consider giving her a dry cat food like Purina ONE Hairball Formula or Pro
Plan Focus Hairball Management Chicken & Rice Formula and supplementing with a wet cat food
such as Pro Plan Focus Indoor Salmon & Rice Formula.

This will help ensure your Persian is getting all the nutrients she needs, while helping control
hairballs caused by her long and luscious coat. When it comes to selecting a feeding bowl, opt
for a wide, shallow dish or saucer with low sides.
Choosing the Best Food for Persian Kittens
You’ll want to keep those chewing problems in mind when selecting a kitten food. In addition to
being easy to eat and supporting hydration, it should also include essential nutrients your Persian
kitty will need for her growth and development throughout her first year of life. A kitten food such
as Pro Plan Focus Kitten Salmon & Ocean Fish Entrée Ground, Pro Plan Focus Kitten Whitefish & Tuna
Entrée Flaked and Pro Plan Focus Kitten Chicken & Rice Formula will provide complete and balanced
nutrition for your growing Persian kitty.